The fourth cohort of MILE began their experience in the three-semester professional and leadership program with a retreat Jan. 31 through Feb. 2, 2024. The retreat, hosted by the 1687 Foundation’s Wood Ranch in central Texas, focused on personal and professional goal-setting, an orientation to the MILE Program, and developing relationships among the new 14 students in the program.
Makayla Miles, a sophomore agricultural education major from Goldthwaite, Texas, said the retreat allowed her to connect with her fellow cohort members.
“During our short time at the Wood Ranch, I enjoyed hearing the variety of backgrounds that we all came from and how we got here,” Miles said. “We are all honored to be a part of the MILE Program, and it was very impactful to be alongside my fellow cohort members during the retreat.”
Rowly Sandoval, a junior animal science pre-vet major from La Feria, Texas, said the retreat also revealed the different leadership styles within the group.
“Our cohort features students from different backgrounds, and it was interesting to learn how each member’s past experiences have influenced their unique views on leadership,” Sandoval said.
MILE Program Director, Lindsay Kennedy, Ph.D., said the retreat at the Wood Ranch provides an opportunity for students to get away from campus and connect as a group.
“Developing a close network with peers in the program is an important outcome of MILE,” Kennedy said. “The relationships and connections these students will create with each other through the next three semesters will last a lifetime. We are incredibly grateful for the partnership the Davis College has with the 1687 Foundation, which provides us with an incredible space for a retreat like this.”
Kennedy said the retreat allows students to get away from campus to focus on personal and leadership development exercises.
Following the retreat, Miles and Sandoval both expressed excitement over what was to come in their MILE experience.
“What excites me the most is the ability to grow as an individual,” Sandoval said. “I’ve heard great things about the MILE Program and how previous members have grown as individuals. I believe the program has the potential to open new opportunities for me and result in my growth as a leader.”
Miles said she is looking forward to the program’s networking opportunities.
“I am looking forward to making professional connections and seeing what opportunities the agriculture industry has to offer for young adults through the MILE Program,” she said.
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